Tooling & Fixture Maker/Patternmaker

Patternmaker / Tooling & Fixture Maker

About this position

Our long-running Quad Cities pattern shop is looking for a skilled Patternmaker to build and maintain complex steel dies and machining fixtures. This is real, hands-on pattern and tooling work on the floor for someone who takes pride in building things right.

We need a craftsman who takes the reins and runs with it – someone who can take a complex part, figure out the tooling, and make it happen without being told what to do at every step. If you'd rather own a tough build start to finish than be handed a checklist, this is your shop.

Your work

• Build, modify, and maintain complex steel dies and casting tooling.
• Design and fabricate complex machining fixtures and workholding.
• Work hands-on on the floor – layout, fitting, machining, assembly, and rework of tooling.
• Solve tough tooling and fixturing problems and see them through to a working solution.
• Partner with programming, machining, and production teams to get tooling production-ready.
• Maintain and improve existing patterns, dies, and fixtures over their life cycle.

What it takes

• Patternmaking, die, or tool-and-fixture experience – or strong hands-on mechanical ability and the drive to master complex tooling.
• Genuinely hands-on; you want to be building and fitting, not just planning.
• Self-directed and resourceful – you take ownership of a build and figure it out.
• Skilled with manual machines, hand tools, layout, and precision fitting.
• Able to read and work from complex prints, models, and castings.
• Pride in craftsmanship and a bias toward making the tooling better.

What we offer

• Highly competitive hourly wage, depending on experience.
• Sign-on bonus.
• Day shift, on-site.
• Full benefits package including health coverage, paid time off, and retirement plan.
• Established, family-owned shop where craftsmanship is valued.

How to apply

If this sounds like your kind of work, send over your resume and a short note about the tooling and patterns you've built. We'll be in touch with the right candidates.